The University of Ilesa, Osun State, on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, held its Second Distinguished Public Lecture as part of activities commemorating its Founders’ Day, bringing together leading figures from government, academia, the accounting profession and traditional institutions to discuss pathways to Nigeria’s economic resilience.
The lecture, themed “Accounting for Economic Resilience: Addressing Inflation, Fiscal Sustainability, Insecurity and Governance Challenges in Nigeria,” focused on the importance of accountability, fiscal discipline, transparency and effective governance in addressing the country’s economic challenges.
The event featured Hajia Queensley Sofuratú Seghosime, mni, M.Sc., FCA, President and Chairman of Council of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), as the guest lecturer. High Chief Akinwande Ayinde Akinola, FCCA, FCA, the Sawe of Ilesa, chaired the occasion.
In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilesa, Professor Taiwo Olufemi Asaolu, described the Distinguished Public Lecture Series as a platform for thought leadership, intellectual engagement and meaningful interaction between the university and the wider society.
Asaolu explained that the lecture series, instituted in 2025 to commemorate the institution’s Founders’ Day, was designed to provide a forum for examining pressing national issues through academic rigour, professional expertise and practical insights.
He emphasised that accounting extends beyond bookkeeping, describing it as a vital instrument of accountability, fiscal discipline and institutional development.
According to him, the accounting profession has a significant role to play in building resilient institutions and strengthening the economy, particularly at a time when Nigeria is grappling with inflation, insecurity and governance challenges.
The Vice-Chancellor expressed confidence that the lecture would generate practical ideas for policymakers, business leaders and the academic community, while urging participants to engage actively in the discussions.
He also reaffirmed the university’s commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically sound but equipped to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Asaolu commended Osun State Governor and Visitor to the university, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, for his consistent support for the institution, noting that the university was making steady progress in its growth and development.
He further announced that the university would graduate its pioneer set of students in 2027, describing the forthcoming event as a landmark in the institution’s history.
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Hon. Gbenga Onigbogi, also underscored the significance of the Founders’ Day celebration, describing it as an opportunity to reflect on the vision behind the establishment of the university and renew commitment to the ideals of knowledge, character and service.
Onigbogi noted that the Distinguished Public Lecture Series was established to position the University of Ilesa not merely as a centre of learning but also as a platform for generating solutions to Nigeria’s most pressing challenges.
He stressed that sustainable development could not be achieved without fiscal discipline, transparency and accountability, adding that these principles were essential to both the accounting profession and the education of future leaders.
The Pro-Chancellor expressed appreciation to the guest lecturer for accepting the university’s invitation, noting that her leadership in the accounting profession serves as an inspiration to young accounting students and the girl-child.
He also commended the Vice-Chancellor and his management team for the organisation of the event and the steady progress recorded by the institution.
Onigbogi reiterated the Governing Council’s appreciation to Governor Adeleke for the Osun State Government’s support, describing it as fundamental to the university’s development. He urged participants to approach the lecture as professionals, academics and patriotic Nigerians committed to building a stronger and more economically resilient country.
Representing the ICAN President and Chairman of Council, Hajia Queensley Sofuratú Seghosime, was the institute’s First Deputy President, Oye Akinsutire, PhD, FCA.
Akinsutire’s representation highlighted ICAN’s participation in the university’s intellectual engagement on economic resilience, public financial management and governance. The gathering also underscored the importance of connecting professional expertise with academic research to promote transparency, accountability and sustainable economic growth.
The lecture provided a platform for stakeholders to reflect on how sound accounting practices and responsible financial management could contribute to stronger institutions and more effective responses to Nigeria’s economic challenges.
Representing Governor Adeleke at the occasion was the Osun State Commissioner for Finance, Hon. Ogungbile Adeola Olusola, who, according to the event account, commended the impact of the state government’s support for the university.
The event also attracted prominent traditional rulers, including the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup (Ajimoko III); the Owa of Igbajo, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Ademola Stephen Kayode Makinde; and Oba Adekunle AbdulWaheed Babatunde, the Elende of Eko-Ende.
Other dignitaries, government officials, university administrators, academics, professionals, business leaders, staff, students and members of the media were also in attendance.
The Second Distinguished Public Lecture formed part of the University of Ilesa’s commitment to promoting intellectual discourse and community engagement on issues central to Nigeria’s development.
With the planned graduation of its pioneer students in 2027, the institution is looking ahead to another historic milestone as it continues to consolidate its academic foundation and pursue its vision of becoming a centre of excellence in development-oriented research and community service.
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